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6705 Pine Forest Rd - Suite 300
Pensacola, FL  32526
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Boat Insurance

What does Boat Insurance cover?

Most boat policies cover physical damage to the hull, sails, machinery, furnishings, and most other equipment that is normally used on board. Most dangers are covered including vandalism, malicious mischief, and damage which results from collision or sinking.

Insurance needs differ depending on the type, age, or value of the boat or watercraft you own. Your policy will explain in detail what is covered and what is specifically excluded.

What about Liability Coverage for your boat policy?

You are also insured against liability losses. You are covered for damage you may cause to another boat, yacht, personal water craft, sailboat or dock, and for bodily injury or death to another person while operating your vessle.

Under most boat policies, the boat trailer is covered against physical loss or damage from any external cause.

What additional coverage is included on a boat policy?

You may purchase optional coverages, such as:

• Coverage for your personal property
• Coverage for your fishing equipment
• Coverage against injury to you caused by an uninsured boater

What types of boats can we help you insure?

• Bow Rider - Open bow type of boat with seating. They are best suited for use in lakes and inland waterways.
  
  
• Center Consoles - Single decked open hull boats with the operator's console (helm) in the center of the boat. Work great as fishing boats. Most are powered by outboard motors.
  
  
• Cuddy Cabin - A boat that contains a small cabin in the bow..
  
  
• Walk Around - Cross between center console and a cuddy boat. Generally used as fishing boats and they contain a small cabin.
  
  
• Ski Boats - Flat bottom, high torque boats designed to safely tow water skiers. Powered by high-horsepower engines.
  
  
• Pontoon - Relatively inexpensive, flat hulls that sit on pontoons. Commonly referred to as "party boats". Should only be used in calm inland waters.
  
  
• Jet Boats - Propelled by a jet of water ejected from the back of the craft. Come in a variety of sizes.
  
  
• Personal Watercraft (PWC) - A watercraft used for recreational purposes that you sit or stand on. Often referred to as WaveRunner, Jet Ski or Sea Doo which are actually brand names.
  
  
• Sailboats - A boat propelled partially or entirely by sails. Can be used for racing, sport or just cruising.
  
  
• Bass Boats - A small, flat bottom boat used primarily for bass fishing in inland waters. They are often equipped with swivel chairs for easy casting.
  
  
• Commercial Vessels and P&I
  
  
• Private Pleasure Craft from $50,000 to $200,000,000.
  
  
• Cargo Commercial Fishing
  
  
• Charter International Risks

Is my boat covered when it's not in the water?

It's covered if you have physical damage (comprehensive and collision) coverage.  Liability, Uninsured Motorist and Medical Payments coverages only respond when your boat is in the water.

If I am in an accident while towing my boat who pays for the
damages?

If your boat is damaged your boat policy will respond if you have physical damage (comprehensive and collision) coverage on your policy.

Simply call 850-378-2500 or complete our online quote request form.Your local GreatFlorida Boat Insurance Agent in Florida will help you find the best deal for you.

Get a Quote Online

About Boat Insurance in West Pensacola, FL

A subtropical climate with almost 1,200 miles of coastline creates the ideal conditions for boat owners in West Pensacola, FL. GreatFlorida Boat Insurance will dissipate your worries so you can relax and have safe fun on the water.

Donna Creel at GreatFlorida Insurance West Pensacola, FL offers customized boat insurance policies to guard against unexpected damages, replacement and liability.  Whether you plan to fish, water ski or enjoy the sunset, we cover many different boats with optional coverage to reflect your lifestyle.

Boat Insurance will give you peace of mind while you are out on the water. GreatFlorida Insurance offers boat owners in West Pensacola a variety of protection from the risks of owning, operating and towing your boat.

GreatFlorida Boat Insurance provides coverage to jet skis, sailboats, yachts, fishing boats, ski boats and more. GreatFlorida Insurance carries top notch marine insurance policies to protect your vessel. Contact Donna Creel at GreatFlorida Insurance today and our they will get to work for you with a simple, free quote.

Whether you currently own a boat, yacht, personal water craft, sailboat or are a prospective buyer, Donna Creel at GreatFlorida Insurance West Pensacola, FL can help you find the right Boat Insurance policy at the right price.

GreatFlorida Insurance shops all the major carriers in West Pensacola, to find the best policy and the best rate. Easy, Low-Cost and Worry Free. That's the GreatFlorida Insurance promise.

Simply call 850-378-2500 or complete our online quote request form.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

7/17/2018

A new driver in the family is exciting. However, it can also be the source of stress. Aside from safety concerns, car insurance costs increase significantly.

Teen crash rates are the highest of any age group, making them the riskiest group on the road. Adding a teen to the family car insurance policy can sometimes double the payments.

“While car insurance can get pricey for teens, discounts are available,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance. Below are some discounts available to teen drivers to cut auto insurance costs.

Good Grades

Good student discount rewards students financially, for doing well in school. According to DMV.org, statistics show that students who get good grades are less likely to get into a car accident, making them a lower risk for car insurance companies. A Good grade discount varies among auto insurance companies, however most require the following:

The student is under 25 years old

Full-time enrollment at a high school or college/university

Maintain at least a B average (3.0 grade point average), or be on the honor roll or Dean’s List.

Show other accepted proof of good performance, if home-schooled.

Score in the upper 20 percent on one of the six standardized tests.

Some insurance companies will extend the discount for a year after a student completes school.

Driver’s Education

Safety is the top concern for parents of a teen driver. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens. Driver safety courses teach new drivers rules of the road, as well as offer teen drivers savings.

Students who complete a driver training program, are eligible for a discount. DriversEd.com reports drivers can earn a discount of up to 10 percent after completing their course. Some insurance providers have special courses where students can earn over 15 percent savings.

Electronic Device Technology

Several auto insurers now offer electronic devices to monitor teen driving habits. The devices gather information such as, the number of miles driven, speed, the number of hours on the road and how often the brakes are applied hard. Drivers who meet the standards can save up to 30 percent on premiums.

“These devices are great for safety and savings,” says  Buck,  of GreatFlorida Insurance.

Distant-Student Discounts

If your student driver, resides at a school at least 100 miles from your home and only occasionally drives your vehicle, you could qualify for a discount on your auto insurance.

Car Selection

While most teens dream of receiving a brand-new car for their 16^th birthdays, the reality is, they will most likely be driving something used. A used car will save you money to insure instead of insuring a new one. Large trucks and SUV’s cost more to insure, particularly if they have a four-wheel drive option. Some car features that can save money include; anti-lock brakes (ABS), air bags, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, collision preparation systems and anti-theft devices.

 

The post Lowering a Teen Drivers Auto Insurance appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

7/12/2018

“Fishing, tourism and public health are vulnerable to algae this year in Florida”, observes Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s leading independent boat insurance company.

Red Tide

A patchy bloom of the Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, persists in Southwest Florida. You might recognize red tide on the beach. It looks like thick mats of smelly, brown, seaweed and covers beaches along Florida’s Atlantic Coast.

Red Tide is a naturally-occurring microscopic alga that has been documented along Florida’s Gulf Coast since the 1840’s and occurs nearly every year. Blooms, or higher than normal concentrations of the Florida red tide alga, Karenia brevis, frequently occur in the Gulf of Mexico, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), reports some red tide produces toxins that have harmful effects on people, fish, marine mammals and birds. In humans, the toxin can become airborne and varying levels of eye and respiratory irritation can occur, becoming more severe for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma. Even touching the bloom can cause a rash.  MOTE Marine Laboratory & Aquarium issues daily beach conditions from beaches along the Southwest coast and along the panhandle. Try checking their website before you head out for the day.

Toxic Algae Bloom

Red tide is not the only algae growing in Florida. Two years ago, some Florida waterways and beaches were afflicted by what many described as a green, slimy, rancid- smelling algae. Well…it’s back. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reports the blue-green algae also known as cyanobacteria, typically develops in nutrient-rich lakes that contain high levels of phosphorous and nitrogen. High temperatures, warm water and abundant sunlight create ideal conditions for the toxic blooms to thrive.

Lake Okeechobee, the Caloosahatchee River and St. Lucie estuary are filled with the toxic algae as it continues to spread to Cape Coral and Ft. Myers. “Just cleaning up the water will not help, points out Buck with GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent boat insurance agency. Both red tide and the blue-green algae are exacerbated by fertilizers and other pollution fed by runoff from the surrounding land.

The blue-green algae can cause skin rashes, nausea, respiratory issues, cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. Long term conditions include; liver, kidney and nervous system damage.

Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency this week for seven counties around the lake to give state environmental and tourism agencies more resources to respond to problems caused by the algae. The order also authorizes flushing water south of the lake instead of down the rivers that run to the coasts.

The post Algae Plagues Florida Beaches and Waterways appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

6/27/2018

On July 4^th people across the country express their American patriotism by celebrating Independence Day.  A quick history refresher- On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was officially adopted, declaring the 13 colonies liberated from England.

“Independence Day is a festive day to reflect on the privilege of freedom and democracy we enjoy in this country,” said Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent homeowners insurance agency.

Below is some information you might find useful in commemorating this Independence Day.

FIREWORKS- What is legal and what’s not?

The 4^th of July is all about fireworks.

In Florida, nothing airborne or exploding is legal including shells and mortars, tube devices, Roman candles, rockets and even firecrackers. Although, you can legally purchase fireworks if you sign a waiver. The waiver states that you will be using the fireworks to scare away birds from agricultural products or fish hatcheries, according to Florida Today. Lying on the form is a first-degree misdemeanor.

Illegally using fireworks is also a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. However, sparklers, snakes and party poppers are legal. Keep in mind, there is still a risk of injury using sparklers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports 8 deaths were caused by fireworks in 2017 along with 12,900 emergency-room related injuries. Sparklers were the number one cause of injuries.

The South Walton Fire District recommends the following guidelines to light it up safely:

Keep a bucket of water close by or a garden hose.

Don’t light anything on dry grass, look for a flat surface.

Never try to re-light a “dud” and light one item at a time.

Do not use unwrapped items or items that may have been tampered with.

Only purchase fireworks from a licensed vendor.

Light up in an open area.

Never allow young children to play or light fireworks.

Keep any part of your body from being directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse.

Never carry sparklers in your pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.

DRIVING

More people are killed in car accidents on Independence Day than any other day of the year. “The staggering amount of traffic contributes to that grim statistic, reminds Buck with GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent homeowners insurance and car insurance agency.

Along with a high traffic volume, drinking and driving adds to dangerous road conditions. Alcohol also exacerbates dehydration, intensifying the effects of alcohol and causing drowsiness. Distraction from fireworks, is likewise a source of car accidents.

GreatFlorida Insurance is available 24/7 to help with your insurance needs. We offer quality and affordable homowners insurance coverage to Floridians across the state. Call us at 1-888-478-7801 or check us out online at www.greatflorida.com.

The post Make Independence Day unforgettable-in a good way appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

5/30/2018

The American Automobile Association (AAA), reports current gas prices are the highest they have been in four years. Almost 60 cents higher than this time last year.

“Gas prices typically rise just in time for the busy Memorial Day weekend,” observes Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent auto insurance agency.

However, relief at the pump is coming. Crude oil prices are dropping and some oil producing nations such as Russia and Saudi Arabia, are expected to increase oil production.  Mark Jenkins, a spokesman for AAA said gas prices should be lowering, although the prices, “will not happen overnight,” as retailers usually do not react quickly to these market factors and are not ready to discount fuel they paid a premium to get.

Gas prices are the highest in South Florida, at $2.99-$2.94 per gallon in West Palm Beach and Boca Raton. While Jacksonville and Punta Gorda are enjoying the lowest prices at $2.86 per gallon.

“Lower gas prices are arriving in time for what is expected to be a busy summer travel season, says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent auto insurance agency. Airlines for America, an industry trade organization expects summer air travel to rise 3.7 percent, reaching an all-time high.

If you plan to travel this summer, check out the following travel hacks to help save your sanity.

When packing your bag, place shoes in a shower cap.

Throw the hotel bar soap or a dryer sheet in your dirty laundry bag so it doesn’t stink up your bag for the remainder of the trip.

Store power cords in an old sunglass case.

If you forget your cell phone charger, ask the front desk if you can borrow one during your stay.

If you forget the wall plug-in, check the back of the hotel TV, there is usually a USB port.

Heading to a theme park or the beach? Place your phone in a plastic bag to keep it from getting wet.

To protect a wine bottle in your bag, wrap it with a pool floatie.

Scan your passport, ID and itinerary and email it to yourself so you have a digital copy if it is stolen or lost.

 

The post Gas Prices Expected to Drop in Florida appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

5/23/2018

A sink hole is growing on the North Lawn of the White House. We will resist the temptation for commentary and jokes.

“Sinkholes are nothing new to Floridians,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent homeowner insurance provider.

However, concerning experts, are the recent heavy rains throughout the state, that may lead to additional sinkholes. Such as the ones in The Villages or the more than a dozen that opened in an Ocala neighborhood earlier this month.

Speaking to a local news agency, Dr. Anthony Randazzo, professor at the University of Florida calls the stretch of land between Tallahassee and I-4 through Central Florida, “sinkhole alley.”

Dr. Randazzo says last year’s Hurricane Irma is responsible for over 400 sinkholes. Recent heavy rainfall is exacerbating the problem.

Sinkholes occur in Florida so often because the peninsula is made up of porous rocks such as limestone or sandstone, which can dissolve over time as they interact with acid naturally occurring in rainwater, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

So, what happens if a sinkhole develops near or on your property? Florida law requires insurance companies to provide coverage for catastrophic ground cover collapse.

“However, sinkhole damage must meet specific criteria and may not be covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy,” says Buck with GreatFlorida Insurance.  “The law defines sinkhole damage differently from catastrophic ground cover collapse. Sinkhole coverage is available to add to a homeowner’s policy for an additional cost.”

Florida homes do not require inspection for the possibility of sinkholes. Also, most builders do not have them inspected, because of the additional expense. It is impossible to predict when and where the exact location of a sinkhole might develop.

Only a licensed, professional geologist with training in identifying sinkholes, might be able to determine the possibility of sinkhole activity. It is important to keep in mind, not all potential sinkhole activity can be identified.

As a protection to buyers, home sellers are required to disclose when a sinkhole claim was made on a piece of property and the amount that was paid to repair the damages.

You can call the Florida Department of Environmental Protection at 850-245-2118, with a sinkhole question.

The post Heavy Rain Responsible for Sinkholes appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

5/16/2018

The 2018 Atlantic Hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. “Current research proves hurricanes are growing stronger and occurring more frequently,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent auto insurance agency.

Colorado State University predicts a slightly above average Atlantic hurricane season, with 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes. Whereas, The Weather Channel, is predicting 13 named storms, six hurricanes and two major hurricanes.

While thunderstorms commonly occur in Florida, hail is not as common. It is a type of frozen precipitation that occurs within strong to severe storms any time of the year. Hail causes approximately $1 billion in property damage annually nationwide.

Hail can dent your automobile’s hood, trunk and doors. It can break and crack mirrors and windows and cause damaged or stuck doorjambs.

“It is really tempting to observe the novelty of anything frozen falling from the sky but hail can be dangerous, especially if it is sizable,” reminds Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent auto insurance agency.

If you are out driving when a hailstorm hits, don’t panic. Below are tips to stay safe on the road.

Slow down and be aware of other drivers around you who make not know how to react when driving in a hailstorm.

Create distance between you and the driver ahead of you.

Safely, get off the road. The impact of hail is greater on a moving object, so your car is at greater risk of damage when it is moving forward.

Look for coverage close by such as a gas station awning or garage.  Avoid trees, falling branches can cause more damage.

If you stop under a bridge or overpass be sure to pull completely out of traffic lanes and onto the shoulder.

Do not leave your car.

Try and keep your car at an angle so hail hits it from the front. Windshields are reinforced to withstand pelting objects. Side windows and back glass are not, they are much more vulnerable to shatter or break.

If the hail is severe, cover your eyes or the eyes of any passengers with a blanket. Get face down in the backseat or floor, face away from any windows.

Stay clear of culverts or ditches that quickly fill with water.

Most comprehensive auto insurance policies will cover hail damage. Once the hail damage is accessed, work with your insurance agent to file a claim and get your car into an auto body shop to repair any dents or other damage caused by the storm.

The post Protect Your Car from Hail Damage This Storm Season appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

5/9/2018

Hawaiian lawmakers recently passed a bill prohibiting the sale of sunscreen containing chemicals known to harm coral reefs.

“Once signed by governor David Ige, it will be the first law of its kind,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatForida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent boat insurance agency.

The chemicals contributing to the destruction of coral reefs and other ocean wildlife are oxybenzone and octinoxate. These are common ingredients found in over 3,500 popular sunscreens such as Coppertone, Hawaiian Tropic and Banana Boat.

Oxybenzone and octinoxate are chemicals that filter and absorb UV light, blocking out the sun’s radiation and extending the amount of time a person can spend in the sun. However, like most topical products, they wash off in the water causing damage to coral and fish. According to coral reef advocates, Be Reef Safe, 4,000 to 6,000 tons of sunscreen end up on coral reefs every year.

A 2015 study conducted by a group of scientists of coral reefs in Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Israel found oxybenzone and octinoxate leach nutrients from coral, bleach it white and reduce its resiliency. The chemicals are known endocrine disrupters, even a tiny amount can damage coral.

“The largest coral reef in the continental U.S. is the Florida Reef, found in the Keys,” reminds Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatForida Insurance, Florida’s top independent boat insurance agency.

It is the third largest barrier reef ecosystem in the world. It too is being threatened by using these chemicals. In order to protect the future of Florida’s reef tract a similar bill could be passed in Florida. As the public becomes aware of the threat these chemicals pose to coral reef and underwater wildlife, it could prompt action to preserve our beloved reef.

Best thing to do now is read sunscreen labels and avoid oxybenzone and octinoxate. There other ingredients available in sunscreens that can effectively protect your skin. Most importantly, cover up. Sunscreen, should be the last line of defense.

The post Could Florida Ban Sunscreen? appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.